Light emitting device, resin package, resin-molded body, and methods for manufacturing light emitting device, resin package and resin-molded body

ABSTRACT

A method of manufacturing a light emitting device having a resin package which provides an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, and in which a resin part and a lead are formed in a substantially same plane in an outer side surface, includes a step of sandwiching a lead frame provided with a notch part, by means or an upper mold and a lower mold, a step of transfer-molding a thermosetting resin containing a light reflecting material in a mold sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold to form a resin-molded body in the lead frame and a step of cutting the resin-molded body and the lead frame along the notch part.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/360,316, filed Nov. 23, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/928,550, filed Oct. 30, 2015 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,537,071, issued Jan. 3, 2017), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/969,182, filed Aug. 16, 2013 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,287,476, issued Mar. 15, 2016), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/737,940, filed on May 13, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,530,250 issued Sep. 10, 2013), which is a U.S. national stage entry of International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2009/004170, filed Aug. 27, 2009, which claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-225408, filed Sep. 3, 2008, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a light emitting device used for light equipment, a display, a backlight of a mobile telephone, a movie lighting auxiliary light source, and other general consumer light sources, and to a method for manufacturing a light emitting device.

BACKGROUND ART

A light emitting device using light emitting elements is small, provides good power efficiency, and emits light of bright color. Further, the light emitting elements are semiconductor elements, and therefore there is no concern for blowout. The light emitting elements have characteristics of good initial driving performance and are robust against vibration and repetition of on and off of lighting. The light emitting elements have these good characteristics, and therefore light emitting devices using light emitting elements such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes (LDs) are utilized as various light sources.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing a conventional light emitting device. FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating an intermediate of the conventional light emitting device. FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the conventional light emitting device.

Conventionally, as a method for manufacturing a light emitting device, a method is disclosed for insert-molding a lead frame with a non-translucent, light reflecting white resin, and molding a resin-molded body which has concave cups at predetermined intervals through the lead frame (e.g., refer to Patent Document 1). Although quality of a material of a white resin is not clearly described, as is insertion-molding performed and as is clear from the figures, a general thermoplastic resin is used. As a general thermoplastic resin, for example, a thermoplastic resin such as liquid crystal polymer, PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), and nylon is often used as a light blocking resin-molded body (e.g., refer to Patent Document 2).

However, the thermoplastic resin has little adhesion with a lead frame, and the resin part and lead frame are likely to be detached. Further, the thermosetting resin has lower resin fluidity of the resin and therefore is not adequate to mold a resin-molded body of a complicated shape, and has little light resistance. In recent years in particular, the output of a light emitting element is remarkably improved and, as the output of a light emitting element is increased, light deterioration of a package made of a thermoplastic resin becomes more distinct.

In order to solve the above problems, a light emitting device using a thermosetting resin for a material of a resin-molded body is disclosed (e.g., refer to Patent Document 3). FIG. 17 is a perspective view and sectional view illustrating a conventional light emitting device. FIG. 18 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing the conventional light emitting device. It is disclosed that, with this light emitting device, metal wires are formed from a metal foil by a common method such as punching or etching and are further arranged in a mold of a predetermined shape, and a thermosetting resin is filled in a mold resin inlet to transfer-mold.

However, this manufacturing method has difficulty in manufacturing multiple light emitting devices in a short time. Further, there is a problem that a great amount of a resin of a runner part is discarded per one light emitting device.

As a different light emitting device and manufacturing method therefor, an optical semiconductor element mounting package substrate which has a light reflecting thermosetting resin composition layer on the wiring substrate, and manufacturing method therefor are disclosed (e.g., refer to Patent Document 4). FIG. 19 is a schematic view illustrating steps of manufacturing a conventional light emitting device. This optical semiconductor element mounting package substrate is manufactured as an optical semiconductor element mounting package substrate of a matrix pattern which has a plurality of concave parts, by attaching a printed-wiring board having a flat plate shape to a mold, filling a light reflecting thermosetting resin composition in the mold, and heating and pressuring molding the light reflecting thermosetting resin by means of a transfer-molding machine. Further, it is also disclosed that a lead frame is used instead of a printed-wiring board.

However, these wiring board and lead frame have a flat plate shape and have a small adhering area because a thermosetting resin composition is arranged on this flat shape, and therefore there is a problem that, for example, a lead frame and thermosetting resin composition are likely to be detached upon singulation.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-35794

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-087780

Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-140207

Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-235085

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view illustrating the light emitting device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a lead frame used in the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a light emitting device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a resin-molded body according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating a lead frame used in the second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a resin-molded body according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating a lead frame used in the third embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a resin package according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a method for manufacturing a conventional light emitting device.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating an intermediate of a conventional light emitting device.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a conventional light emitting device.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view and a sectional view illustrating a conventional light emitting device.

FIG. 18 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a conventional light emitting device.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating steps of manufacturing a conventional light emitting device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a simple and low-cost method for manufacturing, in a short time, multiple light emitting devices which has high adhesion between a lead frame and a thermosetting resin composition.

The present invention is earnestly studied and as a result is finally completed.

In this description, terms such as leads, a resin part, and resin package are used for a singulated light emitting device, and terms such as a lead frame and resin molded body are used in the stage prior to singulation.

The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a light emitting device having a resin package which provides an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, and in which a resin part and a lead are formed in a substantially same plane in an outer side surface. The method comprises: a step of sandwiching a lead frame provided with a notch part, by means of an upper mold and a lower mold; a step of transfer-molding a thermosetting resin containing a light reflecting material in a mold sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold to form a resin-molded body in the lead frame; and a step of cutting the resin molded body and the lead frame along the notch part. With the configuration, the thermosetting resin is filled in the notch parts, and therefore an adhering area between the lead frame and the thermosetting resin becomes large, so that it is possible to improve adhesion between the lead frame and the thermosetting resin. Further, a thermosetting resin having lower viscosity than a thermoplastic resin is used, so that it is possible to fill the thermosetting resin in the notch parts without leaving a gap. Further, it is possible to manufacture multiple light emitting devices at one time and greatly improve productive efficiency. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce runners which are discarded, and provide light emitting devices at low cost.

Preferably, plating processing is applied to the lead frame before the lead frame is sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold. In this case, in the manufactured light emitting device, plating processing is not applied to a cut surface and is applied to parts other than the cut surface. It is not necessary to apply plating processing per singulated light emitting device and it is possible to simplify a manufacturing method.

Preferably, the notch part in a cut part of the lead frame is about half the entire surrounding periphery. By this means, it is possible to reduce the weight of the lead frame and provide light emitting devices at low cost. Further, the part of the lead frame to be cut decreases, so that it is possible to better prevent the lead frame and the thermosetting resin from detaching.

In addition, the difference is that, while the thermosetting resin is filled in the notch parts, the thermosetting resin is not filled in hole parts which are described later. While the notch parts and hole parts penetrate the lead frame, grooves which are described later do not penetrate the lead frame.

Preferably, a hole part is provided in the lead frame before the lead frame is sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold. By this means, it is possible to reduce the weight of the lead frame more, and provide light emitting devices at low cost. It is possible to apply the plating processing to the hole parts, and consequently prevent exposure of the lead frame.

Preferably, a groove is provided in the lead frame before the lead frame is sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold. By this means, it is possible to reduce the weight of the lead frame more, and provide light emitting devices at low cost. It is possible to apply plating processing to the grooves, and consequently prevent exposure of the lead frame.

Preferably, the upper mold and the lower mold sandwich a part of the lead frame where a light emitting element is placed or near a hole part. By this means, it is possible to prevent the lead frame from flip-flopping and reduce burrs.

The present invention relates to a light emitting device having a resin package having an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, wherein a resin part and a lead are formed in a substantially same plane in an outer side surface, and wherein at least one surface of a bottom surface and an upper surface of a lead is plated and the outer side surface of the lead is not plated. By this means, it is possible to prevent exposure of leads to which plating processing is not applied, and provide multiple light emitting devices at one time. Further, by applying plating processing to only the part which reflects light from a light emitting element, it is possible to improve the efficiency to extract light from the light emitting device.

Preferably, the lead is exposed at four corners of the resin package. The exposed parts of the leads are reduced compared to leads which are provided on the one entire side surface of a resin package, so that it is possible to improve adhesion between the resin part and the leads. Further, the insulating resin part is provided between a positive lead and a negative lead, so that it is possible to prevent short circuiting.

Preferably, four corners of the resin package are formed in an arc shape seen from a bottom surface side. It is also possible to employ a configuration where plating processing is applied to a part which is formed in an arc shape and is not applied to the cut surface. By this means, it is possible to expand a bonding area with, for example, a solder, and improve the boding strength.

Preferably, a step is provided in the lead. The differences in level are preferably provided in the bottom surface of the resin package. It is also possible to employ a configuration where plating processing is applied to a part in which differences in level are formed and is not applied to the cut surface. By this means, it is possible to expand a bonding area with, for example, a solder, and improve the boding strength.

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a resin package having an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, wherein a resin part and a lead are formed in a substantially same plane in an outer side surface. The method comprising: a step of sandwiching a lead frame provided with a notch part, by means of an upper mold and a lower mold; a step of transfer-molding a thermosetting resin containing a light reflecting material in a mold sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold to form a resin-molded body in the lead frame; and a step of cutting the resin-molded body and the lead frame along the notch part. With the configuration, the thermosetting resin is filled in the notch parts, and therefore an adhering area between the lead frame and the thermosetting resin becomes large, so that it is possible to improve adhesion between the lead frame and the thermosetting resin. Further, a thermosetting resin having lower viscosity than a thermoplastic resin is used, so that it is possible to fill the thermosetting resin in the notch parts without leaving a gap. Further, it is possible to manufacture multiple resin packages at one time and greatly improve productive efficiency. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce runners which are discarded, and provide resin packages at low cost.

Preferably, plating processing is applied to the lead frame before the lead frame is sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold. In this case, in the manufactured resin package, plating processing is not applied to a cut surface and is applied to parts other than the cut surface. It is not necessary to apply plating processing per singulated resin package and it is possible to simplify a manufacturing method.

The present invention relates to a resin package having an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, wherein a resin part and a lead are formed in a substantially same plane in an outer side surface, and wherein at least one surface of a bottom surface and an upper surface of a lead is plated and the outer side surface of the lead is not plated. By this means, it is possible to prevent exposure of leads to which plating processing is not applied, and provide multiple resin packages at one time. Further, by applying plating processing to only the part which reflects light from a light emitting element, it is possible to improve the efficiency to extract light from the light emitting device.

The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a resin-molded body having an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, wherein a plurality of concave parts are formed, and in which a part of a lead frame is exposed in inner bottom surfaces of the concave parts. The method comprises: a step of sandwiching the lead frame by means of an upper mold which has convex parts in positions where the concave parts adjacent in the resin molded body are molded and a lower mold, the lead frame being provided with notch parts; a step of transfer-molding a thermosetting resin containing a light reflecting material in a mold sandwiched by the upper mold and the lower mold to fill the thermosetting resin in the notch parts, and forming the resin-molded body in the lead frame. With this configuration, it is possible to manufacture multiple light emitting devices at one time and greatly improve productive efficiency.

The present invention relates to a resin-molded body having an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at a wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, wherein a plurality of concave parts are formed and a part of a lead frame is exposed in inner bottom surfaces of the concave parts, and wherein the lead frame has notch parts and a thermosetting resin which becomes the resin-molded body is filled, the resin-molded body having a sidewall between adjacent concave parts. By this means, it is possible to provide a resin-molded body of good thermal resistance and light resistance.

The light emitting device and manufacturing method therefor according to the present invention can provide a light emitting device which provides high adhesion between a lead frame and a resin-molded body. Further, it is possible to provide multiple light emitting devices in a short time and greatly improve production efficiency. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce runners which are discarded, and provide light emitting devices at low cost.

Hereinafter, the preferred embodiments of a method for manufacturing a light emitting device and a light emitting device according to the present invention will be described in detail with drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

First Embodiment

(Light Emitting Device)

A light emitting device according to a first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sectional view illustrating a light emitting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line II-II illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a lead frame used in the first embodiment.

A light emitting device 100 according to the first embodiment provides an optical reflectivity equal to or greater than 70% at the wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, and has a resin package 20 in which a resin part 25 and leads 22 are formed in the substantially same plane in outer side surfaces 20 b. Plating processing is applied to at least one surface of the bottom surface (an outer bottom surface 20 a of the resin package 20) and the upper surface (an inner bottom surface 27 a of a concave part 27) of the leads 22. By contrast with this, plating processing is not applied to the side surfaces of the leads 22 (the outer side surfaces 20 b of the resin package 20). The resin part 25 occupies a large area in the outer side surfaces 20 b of the resin package 20, and leads 22 are exposed from corner parts.

The resin package 20 is formed with the resin part 25 which mainly contains a light reflecting material 26, and the leads 22. The resin package 20 has the outer bottom surface 20 a in which the leads 22 are arranged, outer side surfaces 20 b in which part of the leads 22 are exposed, and the outer upper surface 20 c in which an opening concave part 27 is formed. In the resin package 20, the concave part 27 having an inner bottom surface 27 a and inner side surface 27 b is formed. The leads 22 are exposed in the inner bottom surface 27 a of the resin package 20 and the light emitting element 10 is placed on the leads 22. In the concave part 27 of the resin package 20, a sealing member 30 which covers the light emitting element 10 is arranged. The sealing member 30 contains a fluorescent material 40. The light emitting element 10 is electrically connected with the leads 22 through wires 50. The leads 22 are not arranged on the outer upper surface 20 c of the resin package 20.

Parts from which the leads 22 are exposed have the half or less length than the entire surrounding length of the outer side surfaces 20 b of the resin package 20. In a method for manufacturing a light emitting device which is described below, notch parts 21 a are provided in a lead frame 21 and the lead frame 21 is cut along the notch parts 21 a and, therefore, the cut part of the lead frame 21 is a part which is exposed from the resin package 20.

In the resin package 20, the leads 22 are exposed from the four corners. The leads 22 are exposed in the outer side surfaces 20 b, and are not subjected to plating processing. Further, the leads 22 may be adapted to be exposed in the outer bottom surface 20 a and subjected to plating processing. In addition, it is possible to apply plating processing to the outer side surfaces 20 b of the leads 22 after singulation.

The light emitting device 100 provides the optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at the wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing. This means that the optical reflectivity in a visible light area is high. The light emitting element 10 preferably provides a light emission peak wavelength between 360 nm and 520 nm, and can also use a light emission peak wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm. More preferably, the light emitting element 10 has a light emission peak wavelength in a short wavelength region of visible light between 420 nm and 480 nm. This resin package 20 has good light resistance against light of a short wavelength equal to or less than 480 nm, and is less likely to be deteriorated. Further, this resin package 20 is not likely to be deteriorated even when the light emitting element 10 generates heat by applying the current thereto, and has good thermal resistance.

It is preferable to use as the resin package 20 a translucent thermosetting resin highly filled with a light reflecting material. It is preferable to use, for example, a thermosetting resin which provides the optical transmittance equal to or more than 80% at 350 nm to 800 nm, and it is more preferable to use a thermosetting resin which provides optical transmittance equal to or more than 90%. This is because it is possible to prevent deterioration of the resin package 20 by reducing light which is absorbed by the thermosetting resin. The light reflecting material 26 preferably reflects 90% or more light from the light emitting element 10, and more preferably reflects 95% or more light. Further, the light reflecting material 26 preferably reflects 90% or more light from the fluorescent material 40, and more preferably reflects 95% or more light. By reducing the amount of light which is absorbed by the light reflecting material 26, it is possible to improve the efficiency to extract light from the light emitting device 100.

Although the light emitting device 100 may have any shape, the light emitting device 100 may have a polygonal shape such as a generally rectangular parallelepiped, generally cube, or generally hexagonal column. The concave part 27 preferably expands in the opening direction, and may have a cylindrical shape. The concave part 27 can adopt a generally circular shape, generally oval shape, or generally polygonal shape.

Hereinafter, each member will be described below.

(Light Emitting Element)

Although a light emitting element is preferably used in which a semiconductor such as GaAlN, ZnS, SnSe, SiC, GaP, GaAlAs, AlN, InN, AlInGaP, InGaN, GaN or AlInGaN is formed on a substrate as a light emitting layer, the semiconductor is not limited to these. Although the light emitting element which provides a light emission peak wavelength between 360 nm and 520 nm is preferable, and a light emitting element which provides a light emission peak wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm can be used. More preferably, the light emitting element 10 has the light emission peak wavelength in the short wavelength region of visible light between 420 nm and 480 nm.

The light emitting element adopting a face-up structure can be used, and, in addition, the light emitting element adopting a face-down structure can also be used. The size of the light emitting element is not particularly limited, and light emitting elements having sizes of 350 μm (350-μm-square), 500 μm (500-μm-square) and 1 mm (I-mm·square) can be used. Further, a plurality of light emitting elements can be used, and all of the light emitting elements may be the same type or may be different types which emit emission colors of red, green and blue of three primary colors of light.

(Resin Package)

The resin package has and is made by integrally molding a resin part formed with a thermosetting resin and the leads. Although the resin package provides an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 70% at 350 nm to 800 nm, the resin package more preferably provides an optical reflectivity equal to or more than 80% at 420 nm to 520 nm. Further, the resin package preferably has a high reflectivity in a light emitting area of a light emitting element and a light emitting area of a fluorescent material.

The resin package has an outer bottom surface, outer side surfaces and an outer upper surface. The leads are exposed from the outer side surfaces of the resin package. The resin part and leads are formed in the substantially same plane. This substantially same plane means that the resin part and leads are formed in the same cutting step.

The outer shape of the resin package is not limited to a generally rectangular parallelepiped, and may have a generally cube, generally hexagonal shape or other polygonal shapes. Further, the resin package seen from the outer upper surface side can also adopt a generally triangular shape, generally square shape, generally pentagonal shape or generally hexagonal shape.

The resin package forms a concave part having an inner bottom surface and an inner side surface. The leads are arranged in the inner bottom surface of the concave part. The concave part seen form the outer upper surface side can adopt various shapes such as a generally circular shape, generally oval shape, generally square shape, generally polygonal shape or combination of these. Although the concave part preferably has a shape expanding in the opening direction, the concave part may have a cylindrical shape. Although the concave part may be provided with a smooth inclination, the concave part may be formed in a shape which has a minute concavity and convexity in its surface and diffuses light.

The leads are provided at predetermined intervals to form a pair of positive and negative leads. Plating processing is applied to the leads in the inner bottom surface of the concave part and the leads of the outer bottom surface of the resin package. Although this plating processing can be performed before a resin-molded body is cut out, it is preferable to use a lead frame to which plating processing is applied in advance. By contrast with this, plating processing is not applied to the side surfaces of the leads.

(Resin Part and Resin-Molded Body)

As the material of the resin part and resin-molded body, a triazine derivative epoxy resin, which is a thermosetting resin is preferably used. Further, the thermosetting resin can contain an acid anhydride, antioxidant, demolding member, light reflecting member, inorganic filler, curing catalyst, light stabilizer, and lubricant. The light reflecting member uses titanium dioxide and is filled with 10 to 60% by weight of titanium dioxide.

The resin package is not limited to the above mode, and is preferably made of at least one selected from the group consisting of an epoxy resin, modified epoxy resin, silicone resin, modified silicone resin, acrylate resin, and urethane resin of a thermosetting resin. Particularly, the epoxy resin, modified epoxy resin, silicone resin or modified silicone resin is preferable. For example, it is possible to use as a solid epoxy resin composition, 100 parts by weight of a clear and colorless mixture in which the epoxy resin consisting of triglycidylisocyanuratem, bisphenol hydride A glycidyl ether and so on, and an acid anhydride consisting of hexahydrophthalic anhydride, 3-methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride, 4-methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride and so on equivalent to the epoxy resin, have been dissolved and mixed, which has been added with: 0.5 parts by weight of DBU (1,8-Diazabicyclo(5,4,0) undecene-7) as a curing accelerator; 1 parts by weight of ethylene glycol as a promoter; 10 parts by weight of a titanium oxide pigment; and 50 parts by weight of a glass fiber, and which has entered the B stage by being heated and partially cured and reacted.

(Lead and Lead Frame)

Although a metal plate of a flat plate shape can be used for a lead frame, a metal plate in which differences in level or concavity and convexity are provided can be used.

The lead frame is formed by, for example, punching or etching a metal plate of a flat plate shape. A concavity and convexity are formed in a sectional shape of the etched lead frame, so that it is possible to improve adhesion between the lead frame and resin molded body. Particularly when a thin lead frame is used, although, with punching, differences in level or concave-convex shapes are formed to improve adhesion between a lead frame and resin-molded body, the effect of improving adhesion is little because the differences in level or concave-convex shapes are small. However, etching can form concave-convex shapes in the entire sectional (etched part) part of the lead frame, so that it is possible to increase a bonding area between the lead frame and resin-molded body and mold a resin package of better adhesion.

By contrast with this, the method of punching a metal plate of a flat plate shape increases cost required for replacement parts due to friction of a mold resulting from the punching, and increases cost required for manufacturing the lead frame. By contrast with this, with etching, a punching mold is not used, so that it is possible to manufacture a lead frame per package at low cost when the number of packages cut from one frame is greater.

The etching may be performed such that the lead frame is penetrated, or may be started from only one surface such that the lead frame is not penetrated.

The notch parts are formed such that a pair of positive and negative leads are provided when the resin-molded body is singulated to the resin package. The notch parts are formed such that the area for cutting the leads is reduced when the resin-molded body is cut. For example, the notch parts are provided in a horizontal direction such that a pair of positive and negative leads are provided, and further notch parts are provided in positions corresponding to cut-out parts for singulating the resin-molded body. Meanwhile, part of the lead frame is jointed such that part of the lead frame does not drop or the leads are exposed in the outer side surfaces of the resin package. To singulate the resin-molded body using a singulation saw, the notch parts are preferably formed vertically and horizontally or linearly in an oblique direction.

The lead frame is formed using an electrical good conductor such as iron, phosphor bronze or a copper alloy. Further, to increase the reflectivity with respect to light from the light emitting element, metal plating using silver, aluminum, copper, gold or the like can be applied to the lead frame. Although metal plating is preferably is applied to the lead frame before the lead frame is sandwiched by the upper mold and lower mold, that is, for example, after the notch parts are provided or etching processing is performed, metal plating can also be applied to the lead frame before the lead frame is integrally molded with the thermosetting resin.

(Sealing Member)

The material of a sealing member is a thermosetting resin. The sealing member is preferably made of at least one selected from the group consisting of an epoxy resin, modified epoxy resin, silicone resin, modified silicone resin, acrylate resin and urethane resin of a thermosetting resin, and is more preferably made of an epoxy resin, modified epoxy resin, silicone resin or modified silicone resin. The sealing member is preferably made of a hard material to protect the light emitting element. Further, it is preferable to use for the sealing resin a resin having good thermal resistance, weather resistance and light resistance. To provide a predetermined function, the sealing member may be mixed with at least one selected from the group consisting of filler, diffusing agent, pigment, fluorescent material and reflecting material. The sealing member may contain a diffusing agent. As a specific diffusing agent, for example, barium titanate, titanium oxide, aluminum oxide or silicon oxide is adequately used. Further, the sealing member can contain an organic or inorganic colored dye or colored pigment in order to cut an undesirable wavelength. Further, the sealing member can also contain a fluorescent material which absorbs light from the light emitting element and converts the wavelength.

(Fluorescent Material)

A fluorescent material may be a material which absorbs light from the light emitting element, and converts the wavelengths into light of a different wavelength. The fluorescent material is preferably selected from, for example, at least any one of a nitride phosphor, oxynitride phosphor or sialon phosphor mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu or Ce, alkaline-earth halogen apatite phosphor, alkaline-earth metal boric acid halogen phosphor, alkaline-earth metal aluminate phosphor, alkaline earth silicate, alkaline-earth sulfide, alkaline-earth thiogallate, alkaline-earth silicon nitride or germanate mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu or a transition metal such as Mn, rare-earth aluminate or rare-earth silicon nitride mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Ce, or organic and organic complexes mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu. As a specific example, although the following phosphors can be used, the fluorescent material is not limited to these.

The nitride phosphor mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu or Ce includes, for example, M₂Si₅N₈:Eu or MAlSiN₃:Eu (where M is at least one or more selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn). Further, the nitride phosphor also includes MSi₇N₁₀:Eu, M_(1.8)Si₅O_(0.2)N₈:Eu or M_(0.9)Si₇O_(0.1)N₁₀:Eu in addition to M₂Si₅N₈:Eu (where M is at least one or more selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn).

The oxynitride phosphor mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu or Ce includes, for example, MSi₂O₂N₂:Eu (where M is at least one or more selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn).

The sialon phosphor mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu or Ce includes, for example, M_(p/2)Si_(12p−q)Al_(p+q)O_(q)N_(16−p):Ce or M-Al—Si—O—N (M is at least one selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn, q is 0 to 2.5, and p is 1.5 to 3).

The alkaline-earth halogen apatite phosphor mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Eu or a transition metal such as Mn includes, for example, M₅(PO₄)₃X:R (M is at least one or more selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn, X is at least one or more selected from F, Cl, Br and I and R is at least one or more selected from Eu, Mn, Eu and Mn).

The alkaline-earth metal boric acid halogen phosphor includes, for example, M₂B₅O₉X:R (M is at least one or more selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn, X is at least one or more selected from F, Cl, Br and I, and R is at least one or more selected from Eu, Mn, Eu and Mn).

The alkaline-earth metal aluminate phosphor includes, for example, SrAl₂O₄:R, Sr₄Al₁₄O₂₅:R, CaAl₂O₄:R, BaMg₂Al₁₆O₂₇:R, BaMg₂Al₁₆O₁₂:R, or BaMgAl₁₀O₁₇:R (R is at least one or more selected from Eu, Mn, Eu and Mn).

The alkaline-earth sulfide phosphor includes, for example, La₂O₂S:Eu, Y₂O₂S:Eu or Gd₂O₂S:Eu.

The rare-earth aluminate phosphor mainly activated by a lanthanoid element such as Ce includes, for example, YAG phosphors represented by composition formulae of Y₃Al₅O₁₂:Ce, (Y_(0.8)Gd_(0.2))₃Al₅O₁₂:Ce, Y₃(Al_(0.8)Ga_(0.2))₅O₁₂:Ce and (Y,Gd)₃(Al,Ga)₅O₁₂:Ce. Further, the rare-earth aluminate phosphor also includes Tb₃Al₅O₁₂:Ce or Lu₃Al₅O₁₂:Ce where part or all of Y is substituted with, for example, Tb or Lu.

The other phosphors include, for example, ZnS:Eu, Zn₂GeO₄:Mn or MGa₂S₄:Eu (where M is at least one or more selected from Sr, Ca, Ba, Mg and Zn).

By using one kind alone or two or more kinds in combination, these phosphors can realize blue, green, yellow and red and, in addition, tinges such as turquoise, greenish yellow and orange which are intermediate colors of blue, green, yellow and red.

(Others)

In the light emitting device, a zener diode can also be further provided as a protective element. The zener diode can be placed on the leads in the inner bottom surface by being placed apart from the light emitting element. Further, a configuration can also be employed where a zener diode is placed on leads in the inner bottom surface of the concave part and a light emitting

element is placed on the zener diode. The size of 280 μm and, in addition, the size of 300 μm can be used.

Method for Manufacturing Light Emitting Device According to First Embodiment

The method for manufacturing a light emitting device according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a method for manufacturing a light emitting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a resin-molded body according to the first embodiment.

The method for manufacturing a light emitting device according to the first embodiment includes the steps of sandwiching the lead frame 21 provided with the notch parts 21 a by means of an upper mold 61 and a lower mold 62, transfer-molding a thermosetting resin 23 containing the light reflecting material 26, in a mold 60 sandwiched by the upper mold 61 and the lower mold 62 to form a resin-molded body 24 in the lead frame 21, and cutting the resin-molded body 24 and lead frame 21 along the notch parts 21 a.

First, the mold 60 formed with the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62 used for transfer-molding will be described.

The upper mold 61 has a main body part of a flat plate which forms an upper part of the upper mold, an outer wall part which is formed in a frame shape from end parts of the main body, a plurality of projecting parts which project from the main body part, and an inlet which penetrates part of the outer wall part in the horizontal direction.

The outer wall part vertically projects from the end parts of the main body part, and has a first outer wall part, a second outer wall part, a third outer wall part and a fourth outer wall part which form a first outer side surface, a second outer side surface, a third outer side surface and a fourth outer side surface of the resin molded body, respectively. That is, the outer wall part is used for molding the outline of the resin-molded body, and formed in a rectangular shape seen from a plan view. The shape of the outer wall part only needs to be adequately formed according to a desirable shape of the resin-molded body.

The projecting parts contact the lead frame 21 upon transfer-molding, and can form an exposed part from which part of the lead frame 21 is exposed from the resin-molded body 24 by preventing the thermosetting resin 23 from flowing in the contacting parts. The projecting parts project downward from the main body part, and are formed by being surrounded by the outer wall. The parts of the projecting parts contacting the lead frame 21 are formed flat. To efficiently form a concave part in an area in the upper surface of the resin molded body 24, the projecting parts are preferably formed in one direction at equal intervals, and the projecting parts are preferably formed at equal intervals in a direction 90 degrees from the one direction of each projecting part.

The inlet is used to inject the thermosetting resin 23, and is formed penetrating in the horizontal direction in the lower end of the substantially center of the outer wall part. The inlet has a semicircular cross sectional surface, and is formed with a width narrowed toward the outlet part from the inlet part of the inlet.

Further, although not illustrated, a pin insertion hole which penetrates the main body part is formed in the upper part of the upper mold 61. The pin insertion hole is used for insertion of the pin when the resin-molded body 24 is demolded from the upper mold 61.

The lower mold 62 is a plate material with a predetermined thickness, and its surface is formed flat. The lower mold 62 is placed in contact with the upper mold 61 to mold a space part.

Next, each manufacturing step will be described.

After the notch parts 21 a are provided, metal plating processing is applied to the lead frame 21.

First, the lead frame 21 provided with the notch parts 21 a is sandwiched by the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62. By sandwiching the lead frame 21 by the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62, space is provided in the mold 60.

In this case, the notch parts 21 a in positions where the concave parts 27 are formed are arranged such that the notch parts 21 a are sandwiched by the projecting parts of the upper mold 61 and the lower mold 62. By this means, it is possible to prevent flip-flop of the lead frame 21 in the notch parts 21 a, and reduce burrs.

Next, the thermosetting resin 23 containing the light reflecting material 26 is transfer-molded in the mold sandwiched by the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62, and the thermosetting resin 23 containing the light reflecting material 26 is injected through the inlet to the space provided in the mold 60 which forms the resin-molded body 24 on the lead frame 21 and is applied a predetermined temperature and pressure to transfer-mold. The lead frame 21 near the notch parts 21 a are sandwiched by the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62, so that, when the thermosetting resin 23 is transfer-molded, it is possible to prevent flip-flop of the lead frame 21 and reduce burrs in the inner bottom surface 27 a of the concave part 27.

The pin is inserted in the pin inserting part to remove the resin-molded body 24 from the upper mold 61. Preferably, the resin-molded body 24 is temporarily cured by being applied a predetermined temperature in the mold 60, then is removed from the mold 60 and is finally cured by being applied a higher temperature than temporary curing.

Next, the light emitting element 10 is placed on the lead frame 21 of the inner bottom surface 27 a of the concave part 27 formed in the resin-molded body 24 to electrically connect with the lead frame 21 through the wires 50. With the step of placing the light emitting element 10, the resin-molded body 24 can be placed after the resin-molded body 24 is removed from the mold 60, or the light emitting element 10 may be placed on the resin package 20 obtained by cutting and singulating the resin-molded body 24. Further, the light emitting elements may be faced down and mounted without using the wires. After the light emitting element 10 is mounted on the lead frame 21, the sealing member 30 containing the fluorescent material 40 is filled and cured in the concave part 27.

Next, the resin-molded body 24 and lead frame 21 are cut along the notch parts 21 a. The resin-molded body 24 in which a plurality of concave parts 27 are formed is cut in the longitudinal direction and lateral direction such that the sidewalls between adjacent concave parts 27 are separated in the substantially center. The cutting method uses a singulation saw, and starts singulation from the resin-molded body 24 side. By this means, in the cutting surface, the resin-molded body 24 and lead frame 21 are in the substantially same plane, and the lead frame 21 is exposed from the resin-molded body 24. By providing the notch parts 21 a in this way, the lead frame 21 to be cut decreases, so that it is possible to prevent the lead frame 21 and resin-molded body 2,1 from being detached. Further, not only the upper surface of the lead frame 21, but also the side surfaces corresponding to the notch parts 21 a adhere to the resin-molded body 24, so that the adhesion strength between the lead frame 21 and resin molded body 24 is improved.

Second Embodiment

A light emitting device according to a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating a lead frame used in the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a resin molded body according to the second embodiment. Description of some configurations employing the substantially same configuration as the light emitting device according to the first embodiment will be omitted where necessary.

With the light emitting device according to the second embodiment, the light emitting element 10 is placed in the concave part provided in the resin package 120. The corner parts of the outer upper surface 120 c of the resin package 120 are formed in an arc shape. Further, the side surface of the lead 122 is formed in an arc shape seen from the upper surface, and the lead 122 is provided with a step such that the lead 122 slightly projects from the resin part 125 seen from the upper surface. Plating processing is applied to the upper surfaces, outer bottom surfaces 120 a and arc-shaped curved parts of the projecting leads 122. By contrast with this, plating processing is not applied to the outer side surfaces 120 b other than the arc-shaped parts of the leads 122. By increasing the parts to which plating processing is applied in this way, the bonding strength with a conductive material such as a solder increases.

Method for Manufacturing Light Emitting Device According to Second Embodiment

With the method for manufacturing a light emitting device according to the second embodiment, notch parts 121 a and hole parts 121 b are provided in the lead frame 121. Although the shapes of these hole pads 121 b are preferably circular, the hole parts 121 b can adopt a polygonal shape such as a square shape or hexagonal shape, or an oval shape. The positions of the hole parts 121 in the lead frame 121 are preferably provided on the extension of the notch parts 121 a and near a point where the notch parts 121 a cross each other. Although the hole parts 121 b may adopt any sizes, the holes parts 121 b are preferably wider to use for electrodes and increase the bonding strength with a conductive material. Further, it is possible to expand the adhering area with the conductive material, and increase the bonding strength.

Slightly larger holes than the shapes of the hole parts 121 b are provided to cover the vicinity of the hole parts 121 b of the lead frame 121.

The lead frame 121 in which the notch parts 121 a are provided is sandwiched by an upper mold and lower mold. In this case, the vicinity of the hole parts 121 b is sandwiched by the molds. By this means, upon transfer-molding, a thermosetting resin is not poured into the hole parts 121 b and the thermosetting resin in the hole parts 121 b do not need to be removed.

A thermosetting resin containing a light reflecting material is transfer-molded in the mold sandwiched by the upper mold and lower mold to form the resin-molded body 124 in the lead frame 121.

Plating processing is applied to the exposed part of the lead frame 121 of the resin-molded body 124. Plating processing is applied to the inner bottom surface of the concave part, outer bottom surface 120 a of the resin package 120, circular inner surface of the lead frame 121 and the upper surface extending therefrom.

The resin-molded body 124 and lead frame 121 are cut along the notch parts 121 a.

By performing the above steps, it is possible to provide the light emitting device according to the second embodiment. The holes 121 b are provided on the extension of the notch parts 121 a, so that, when singulation is performed using a singulation saw, it is possible to reduce the time required for cutting the lead frame 121 because the lead frame 121 to be cut is little. According to this manufacturing method, it is possible to easily provide in a short time a light emitting device which has many plated parts in the lead frame 121.

Third Embodiment

A light emitting device according to a third embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating the light emitting device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating a lead frame used in the third embodiment. Description of some configurations employing the substantially same configuration as the light emitting device according to the first embodiment will be omitted where necessary.

The light emitting device according to the third embodiment provides an optical reflectivity equal to or greater than 70% at the wavelength between 350 nm and 800 nm after thermal curing, and has a resin package 220 in which a resin part 225 and leads 222 are formed in the substantially same plane in an outer side surface 220 b. Plating processing is applied to the bottom surface and upper surface of the leads 222, and is not applied to the outer side surfaces. The lead 222 has a predetermined thickness, and is provided with differences in level near the outer side surfaces of the resin package 220. Plating processing applied to the side surfaces which are one step deeper in the differences in level, and the bottom surface which slightly juts outward. By providing the plate difference in the lead 222 in this way, the bonding area increases, so that it is possible to improve the bonding strength with a conductive material such as a solder. Further, it is possible to reduce the thickness of part of the lead 222 to be cut using the singulation saw, and reduce the cutting time. Further, singulation is started from the outer upper surface of the resin package 220 using the singulation saw, and therefore burrs extending in the direction of the outer bottom surface are likely to be produced in the cutting surface of the lead 222. In case where the cutting surfaces and outer bottom surfaces of the leads are in the same plane, although there are cases where the light emitting device is inclined due to burrs when the light emitting device is mounted, differences in level are provided in the cutting surfaces of the leads and therefore the burrs do not reach the outer bottom surface, so that the light emitting device is not inclined due to the burrs.

In the lead 222 which is exposed from the resin package 220, the step is formed with a first surface which is exposed in the outer bottom surface 220 a of the resin package 220, a second surface which is formed at a substantially right angle from the outer bottom surface 220 a in an upward direction, a third surface which is formed at a substantially right angle from the second surface in the direction of the outer side surface of the resin package 220, and a fourth surface which is exposed in the outer side surface of the resin package 220. Although plating processing is applied to the first surface, second surface and third surface, plating processing is not applied to the fourth surface. The second surface and third surface can also be formed as one curved surface. When the second surface and third surface are formed as one curved surface, a solder readily expands in the step.

The resin package 220 forms a generally square shape in the outer upper surface 220 c, and is covered by the resin part 225. A generally conic trapezoidal concave part is provided on the outer upper surface 220 c side of the resin package 220.

Method for Manufacturing Light Emitting Device According to Third Embodiment

With the method for manufacturing a light emitting device according to the third embodiment, grooves 221 c of substantially straight lines are provided in the lead frame 221 on the side corresponding to the outer bottom surface side of the light emitting device. Although the depth of these grooves 221 c is preferably half the thickness of the lead frame 221, the groove 221 c may have about 114 to ⅘ of the depth. Although the width of this groove 221 c is variously changed according to, for example, the distance to an adjacent concave part or the size of the light emitting device, the groove 221 c only needs to have the depth that can be recognized as the step in the light emitting device when the center of the groove is cut.

The lead frame 221 provided with notch parts 221 a is sandwiched by the upper mold and lower mold. The notch parts 221 a are sandwiched by the upper mold and lower mold and prevented from flip-flopping upon transfer-molding.

By transfer-molding a thermosetting resin containing a light reflecting material in the mold sandwiched by the upper mold and lower mold, a resin-molded body is formed in the lead frame 221.

Plating processing is applied to the exposed part of the lead frame 221 of the resin-molded body. Plating processing is applied to the inner bottom surface of the concave part, the outer bottom surface 220 a of the lead frame 221, and grooves 221 c. Plating processing of these grooves 221 c is applied to the first surface, second surface and third surface in the differences in level in the light emitting device.

The resin molded body and lead frame are cut along the notch parts 221 a. Further, the resin-molded body is cut along the grooves 221 c.

By performing the above steps, it is possible to provide the light emitting device according to the third embodiment. According to this manufacturing method, it is possible to easily provide in a short time a light emitting device which has many plated parts in the lead frame 121.

Fourth Embodiment

A light emitting device according to a fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a light emitting device according to the fourth embodiment. Description of some configurations employing the substantially same configuration as the light emitting device according to the first embodiment will be omitted where necessary.

The light emitting device according to the fourth embodiment has differences in level which are dented in the portions of the outer side surfaces 320 b, in the leads 322 of the outer side surfaces 320 b of the resin package 320. In the lead 322 which is exposed from the resin package 320, the step is formed with a first surface which is provided in the outer bottom surface 320 a of the resin package 320, a second surface which is formed at a substantially right angle from the outer bottom surface 320 a in an upward direction, a third surface which is formed at a substantially right angle from the second surface in the direction of the outer side surface of the resin package 320, and a fourth surface of the outer side surface of the resin package 320. The outer upper surface 320 c of the resin package 320 is formed in a generally rectangular shape formed with a resin part a25. Plating processing is applied to the outer bottom surface 320 a, first surface, second surface provided with a step, third surface and the inner bottom surface of the concave part. By contrast with this, plating processing is not applied to the outer side surfaces 320 b provided with no the step are not provided.

An etched lead frame is used for the leads 322. In the cut surface of the resin-molded body, the etched leads 322 have a concavity and convexity. This concavity and convexity improve adhesion between the resin part and leads.

By providing the differences in level in part of the leads 322, it is possible to expand the bonding area with a conductive material upon mounting, and increase the bonding strength. Further, a concavity is provided in the lead frame, so that it is easy to cut the lead frame and reduce the time required for cutting.

Fifth Embodiment

A light emitting device according to a fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the light emitting device according to the fifth embodiment. Description of some configurations employing the substantially same configuration as the light emitting device according to the first embodiment will be omitted where necessary.

The light emitting device according to the fifth embodiment has differences in level which are dented in the portions of outer side surfaces 420 b, in the leads 422 of the outer side surfaces 420 b of the resin package 420. In the lead 422 which is exposed from the resin package 420, the step is formed with a first surface which is provided in the outer bottom surface 420 a of the resin package 420, a second surface which is formed at a substantially right angle from the outer bottom surface 420 a in an upward direction, a third surface which is formed at a substantially right angle from the second surface in the direction of the outer side surface of the resin package 420, and a fourth surface of the resin package 420. In the outer side surface 420 b of the resin package 420, the leads 422 are separated into six. The leads 422 may be separated respectively, or jointed. The leads 422 provided with notch parts are more preferable than the leads of a flat plate shape because a bonding strength between the resin part 425 and leads 422 becomes high. The outer upper surface 420 c of the resin package 420 is formed in a generally rectangular shape formed with the resin part 425. Plating processing is applied to the outer bottom surface 420 a, first surface, second surface provided with the step, the third surface and the inner bottom surface of the concave part. By contrast with this, plating processing is not applied to the outer side surfaces 420 b provided with no step.

By providing the differences in level in part of the leads 422, it is possible to expand a bonding area with a conductive member, and increase the bonding strength. Further, a concavity is provided in the lead frame, so that it is easy to cut the lead frame and it is possible to reduce the time required for cutting.

Sixth Embodiment

A resin package according to a sixth embodiment will be described. FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating the resin package according to the sixth embodiment. Description of some configurations employing the same configuration as the resin package according to the first embodiment and the resin package according to the fifth embodiment will be omitted where necessary.

The resin package according to the sixth embodiment has differences in level dented in the corner parts in the leads 522 of the outer side surfaces 520 b of the resin package 520. This step has an arc shape seen from the outer bottom surface 520 a side in the lead 522 exposed from the resin package 520. This arc shape is obtained by dividing a circle into four. This arc shape is obtained by etching the circle to substantially half the thickness of the circle so as not to penetrate the lead 522, and then cutting the circle into four. Plating processing is applied to the parts of these arc shapes. Plating processing is applied to these arc shape parts and outer bottom surface 520 a before the circle is divided into four. By contrast with this, plating processing is not applied to the outer side surfaces 520 b provided with no the step. The resin package 520 forms a generally square shape seen from the outer upper surface 520 c, from which the resin part 525 is exposed.

By providing the differences in level in the leads 522, it is possible to expand a bonding area with a conductive material, and increase the bonding strength. Further, even when burrs are produced in parts of the differences in level when the resin-molded body is cut, the burrs are provided above the outer bottom surface 520 a, so that the resin-molded body does not teeter when the resin-molded body is jointed with a conductive material. Further, concavities are provided in the lead frame, so that it is easy to cut the resin frame and it is possible to reduce the time required for cutting.

EXAMPLE

The light emitting device according to Example 1 will be described. Overlapping description of the light emitting device described in the first embodiment will be omitted where necessary. FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the light emitting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sectional view illustrating the light emitting device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line II-II illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating the lead frame used in the first embodiment.

The light emitting device 100 has the light emitting element 10, and the resin package 20 in which the resin part 25 containing the light reflecting material 26 and the leads 22 are integrally molded. The light emitting element 10 is a nitride semiconductor light emitting element which emits blue light with the light emission peak wavelength at 450 nm. The resin package 20 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape having a mortar-shaped concave part 27. The size of the resin package 20 is 35 mm long, 35 mm wide and 0.8 mm high, and a substantially diameter on the outer upper surface 20 c side of the concave part 27 is 2.9 mm, a substantially diameter of the inner bottom surface 27 a is 2.6 mm and the depth is 0.6 mm. The thickness of the lead 22 is 0.2 mm. Titanium oxide is used for the light reflecting material 26. An epoxy resin which is a thermosetting resin is used for the resin part 25. The epoxy resin contains about 20% by weight of titanium oxide. The resin package 20 provides the optical reflectivity of 81% at the wavelength of 450 nm after thermal curing. The resin part 25 and leads 22 are formed in the substantially same plane in the outer side surfaces 20 b of the resin package 20. The leads 22 are exposed from the four corners of the resin package 20. With the leads 22, plating processing is applied to the outer bottom surface 20 a of the resin package 20 and the inner bottom surface 27 a of the concave part 27. By contrast with this, with the leads 22, plating processing is not applied to the outer side surfaces 20 b of the resin package 20. The sealing member 30 containing the fluorescent material 40 which emits yellow light is filled in the concave part 27. (Y,Gd)₃(Al,Ga)₅O₁₂:Ce is used for the fluorescent material 40. A silicone resin is used for the sealing member 30.

This light emitting device is manufactured as follows.

The lead frame is provided with the notch parts 21 a by etching. Although not illustrated, a concavity and convexity are formed in the cross-sectional surface of the notch part 21 a. Ag is adhered to the lead frame by electrolytic plating. The plated lead frame 21 provided with the notch parts 21 a is used.

Next, the lead frame 21 of a predetermined size is sandwiched by the upper mole 61 and lower mold 62. The lead frame 21 has a flat plate shape, and is provided with the notch parts 21 a matching the size of the light emitting device to be singulated. The notch parts 21 a are provided in the vertical direction and horizontal direction such that, when the resin package 20 is singulated, the four corners are exposed and the parts other than the four corners are not exposed. Further, the notch parts 21 a are provided in the horizontal direction such that, when the resin package 20 is singulated, the notch parts 21 a are electrically insulated, and are sandwiched by the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62.

The thermosetting resin 23 containing the light reflecting material 26 is transfer-molded in the mold 60 sandwiched by the upper mold 61 and lower mold 62 to form the resin-molded body 24 in the lead frame 21. The thermosetting resin 23 containing the light reflecting material 26 is processed to a pellet, and heated and pressured to poured in the mold 60. At this time, the thermosetting resin 23 is also filled in the notch parts 21 a. After temporarily curing the thermosetting resin 23 which has poured, the upper mold 61 is removed and the thermosetting resin 23 is further heated and finally cured. By this means, the resin-molded body 24 in which the lead frame 21 and thermosetting resin 23 are integrally molded is manufactured.

Next, the light emitting element 10 is mounted on the leads 22 of the inner bottom surface 27 a of the concave part 27 using a die bond member. After the light emitting element 10 is placed, the light emitting element 10 and the leads 22 are electrically connected using the wires 50. Next, the sealing member 30 containing the fluorescent material 40 is filled in the concave part 27.

Finally, the resin-molded body 24 and lead frame 21 are cut along the notch parts 21 a and singulated into individual light emitting devices 100. By this means, plating processing is not applied to the cut parts of the leads 22.

By performing the above steps, it is possible to manufacture multiple light emitting devices 100 at one time.

The present invention can be utilized for light equipment, a display, backlight of a mobile telephone, a movie lighting auxiliary light source and other general consumer light sources. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A light emitting device comprising: a resin part that includes a resin part upper surface, a resin part lower surface opposite the resin part upper surface, and a plurality of resin part outer lateral surfaces extending from the resin part upper surface to the resin part lower surface; first and second metal plates that are covered by the resin part; and a light emitting element; wherein a recess is defined by the resin part and the first and second metal plates, the recess having an opening at the resin part upper surface; and wherein each of the first and second metal plates includes: a metal plate upper surface, a part of the metal plate upper surface defining part of a bottom of the recess, a metal plate lower surface opposite the metal plate upper surface and exposed from the resin part lower surface, a metal plate outer lateral surface extending from the metal plate upper surface and exposed from a respective one of the resin part outer lateral surfaces, and a metal plate concave curved surface extending from a bottom edge of the metal plate outer lateral surface to an outer lateral edge of the metal plate lower surface; wherein the light emitting element is located on the metal plate upper surface of the first metal plate; and wherein, at the metal plate concave curved surfaces of the first and second metal plates, the first and second metal plates include a base portion and a metal plating disposed on the base portion, the metal plating being made of a material that is different from that of the base portion.
 2. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the metal plating is made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of silver, aluminum, copper, and gold.
 3. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein: each of the first and second metal plates further includes a metal plate inner lateral surface, wherein the metal plate inner lateral surface of the first metal plate faces the metal plate inner lateral surface of the second metal plate, with a portion of the resin part located therebetween; and each of the metal plate inner lateral surfaces includes a first concave curved surface extending from an inner lateral edge of the metal plate upper surface, and a second concave curved surface extending from an inner lateral edge of the metal plate lower surface.
 4. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein each metal plate concave curved surface extends inward from the respective bottom edge of the metal plate outer lateral surface and then downward to respective outer lateral edge of the metal plate lower surface.
 5. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the metal plate is exposed from the resin part outer lateral surfaces over half or less of an entire surrounding length of the resin part outer lateral surfaces.
 6. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the concave curved surfaces of the first and second metal plates are exposed from the resin part.
 7. The light emitting device of claim 1, wherein a portion of the resin part on the metal plate upper surfaces of the first metal plate and the second metal plate is materially continuous with a portion of the resin part between the first metal plate and the second metal plate.
 8. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein each metal plate outer lateral surface is flush with the respective resin part outer lateral surface.
 9. The light emitting device according to claim 8, wherein each metal plate lower surface is flush with the resin part lower surface.
 10. The light emitting device according to claim 8, wherein a portion of each resin part outer lateral surface is located at each lateral side of the respective metal plate outer lateral surface.
 11. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the metal plating is not disposed at the metal plate outer lateral surfaces.
 12. The light emitting device according to claim 11, wherein the metal plating is made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of silver, aluminum, copper, and gold.
 13. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein: each of the first and second metal plates further includes a metal plate inner lateral surface, wherein the metal plate inner lateral surface of the first metal plate faces the metal plate inner lateral surface of the second metal plate, with a portion of the resin part located therebetween; and each of the metal plate inner lateral surfaces includes a first concave curved surface extending from an inner lateral edge of the metal plate upper surface, and a second concave curved surface extending from an inner lateral edge of the metal plate lower surface.
 14. The light emitting device according to claim 13, wherein the metal plating is further disposed on the first concave curved surface and the second concave curved surface of the metal plate inner lateral surfaces.
 15. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the resin part comprises a thermosetting resin.
 16. The light emitting device according to claim 15, wherein the light emitting element has the light emission peak between 420 nm and 480 nm.
 17. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the resin part contains a light reflecting material.
 18. The light emitting device according to claim 17, wherein the light reflecting material is titanium dioxide.
 19. The light emitting device according to claim 1, further comprising a sealing member covering the light emitting element within the recess.
 20. The light emitting device according to claim 19, wherein the sealing member comprises a thermosetting resin.
 21. The light emitting device according to claim 19, wherein the sealing member contains two or more kinds of phosphors.
 22. A light emitting device comprising: a resin part that includes a resin part upper surface, a resin part lower surface opposite the resin part upper surface, and a plurality of resin part outer lateral surfaces extending from the resin part upper surface to the resin part lower surface; first and second metal plates that are covered by the resin part; and a light emitting element; wherein a recess is defined by the resin part and the first and second metal plates, the recess having an opening at the resin part upper surface; wherein a first corner of the first metal plate is exposed from adjacent resin part outer lateral surfaces at a first corner of the resin part; wherein the first corner of the first metal plate includes a concave curved surface that is concave in a plan view of the first metal plate; and wherein, at the concave curved surface of the first corner of the first metal plate, the first metal plate includes a base portion and a metal plating disposed on the base portion, the metal plating being made of a material that is different from that of the base portion.
 23. The light emitting device of claim 22, wherein the first corner of the resin part includes a concave curved surface.
 24. The light emitting device of claim 23, wherein, in the plan view of the light emitting device, the concave curved surface of the first corner of the first metal plate is located outward of the concave curved surface of the first corner of the resin part.
 25. The light emitting device of claim 22, wherein: the plurality of resin part outer lateral surfaces includes a first resin part outer lateral surface, a second resin part outer lateral surface opposite the first resin part outer lateral surface, a third resin part outer lateral surface, and a fourth resin part outer lateral surface opposite the third resin part outer lateral surface, the first corner of the first metal plate is exposed from the first and third resin part outer lateral surfaces.
 26. The light emitting device of claim 25, wherein: a second corner of the first metal plate is exposed from the first and fourth resin part outer lateral surfaces at a second corner of the resin part, and the second corner of the first metal plate includes a concave curved surface that is concave in the plan view of the light emitting device.
 27. The light emitting device of claim 26, wherein: a first corner of the second metal plate is exposed from the second and third resin part outer lateral surfaces at a third corner of the resin part, the first corner of the second metal plate includes a concave curved surface that is concave in the plan view of the light emitting device, a second corner of the second metal plate is exposed from the second and fourth resin part outer lateral surfaces at a fourth corner of the resin part, the second corner of the second metal plate includes a concave curved surface that is concave in the plan view of the light emitting device.
 28. The light emitting device of claim 25, wherein: the first corner of the first metal plate includes a first surface exposed from the first resin part outer lateral surface, and a second surface exposed from the third resin part outer lateral surface, and the concave curved surface of the first corner of the first metal plate extends between the first surface of the first corner of the first metal plate and the second surface of the first corner of the first metal plate.
 29. The light emitting device of claim 28, wherein the first surface of the first corner of the first metal plate is flush with the first resin part outer lateral surface, and the second surface of the first corner of the first metal plate is flush with the third resin part outer lateral surface.
 30. The light emitting device of claim 28, wherein: at the concave curved surface of the first corner of the first metal plate, the first metal plate includes a base portion and a metal plating disposed on the base portion, the metal plating being made of a material that is different from that of the base portion, and at the first surface of the first corner of the first metal plate and the second surface of the first corner of the first metal plate, the first metal plate does not include the metal plating.
 31. A light emitting device comprising: a resin part that includes a resin part upper surface, a resin part lower surface opposite the resin part upper surface, and a plurality of resin part outer lateral surfaces extending from the resin part upper surface to the resin part lower surface; first and second metal plates that are covered by the resin part; and a light emitting element; wherein a recess is defined by the resin part and the first and second metal plates, the recess having an opening at the resin part upper surface; and wherein each of the first and second metal plates includes: a metal plate upper surface, a part of the metal plate upper surface defining part of a bottom of the recess, a metal plate lower surface opposite the metal plate upper surface and exposed from the resin part lower surface, a metal plate outer lateral surface extending from the metal plate upper surface and exposed from a respective one of the resin part outer lateral surfaces, and a metal plate concave curved surface extending from a bottom edge of the metal plate outer lateral surface to an outer lateral edge of the metal plate lower surface; and wherein the light emitting element is located on the metal plate upper surface of the first metal plate; wherein each of the first and second metal plates further includes a metal plate inner lateral surface, wherein the metal plate inner lateral surface of the first metal plate faces the metal plate inner lateral surface of the second metal plate, with a portion of the resin part located therebetween; and wherein each of the metal plate inner lateral surfaces includes a first concave curved surface extending from an inner lateral edge of the metal plate upper surface, and a second concave curved surface extending from an inner lateral edge of the metal plate lower surface. 